Just a little advice please

@cher8558 (425)
Canada
January 25, 2009 4:04am CST
Hi friends, I know there are some people out there who are or who have written a book or maybe more than one. I just would love some advice. I have wanted to write a novel since I was about 12 years old. The problem I have is knowing where and how to start. I'm sure I could come up with a story.....its just how to begin the whole process? So any writers out there, how about a little heads up for me so maybe one day I can be another Danielle Steel ? Thanks all Cheryl
2 people like this
6 responses
@dfollin (27267)
• United States
2 Feb 09
I have not written a story.I wrote a genelogical history of our family.So,I cannot advise you on writing a story. Good luck.
@eynjel05 (444)
• Philippines
26 Jan 09
Just like you I am dreaming to publish my own novel. I really love to read and so writing. But creating your own story is not as easy as one,two,three.First, you should have a wide imagination so that you can think of different scenario to be write.Then it should be your interest that you should create because if you really love what you are dong you can create a good story. Having a wide vocabulary is also important in creating your story so that you can easily write what you are thinking.And the very important thing is that, you should have the time to write your novel.It should be in a quiet place where you can think of what you will be writing. I hope I make sense and atleast help you.
• United States
25 Jan 09
I wish I had some advice for you - if anything, I'm here to let you know you're not alone. I've always had this desire to write but never know how to start. I would not be a good writer, I'd get writer's block often.. I just know it. I hope someone comes along that can give you some great advice .. good luck to you!
@syeryn (573)
• United States
25 Jan 09
I don't know if you can be the next Danielle Steel, only your writing can answer that question for you. Tackling a full lenght book as your first attempt at writing can be daunting and oftentimes frustrating. There are many places paying for short stories and that is a good place to start. As for advice, I can only offer this: Write about what you know, if you arenot familiar with the topic, your readers will know this and drop you. Outline your story first, it will keep you focused on the plot while you write the story. It prevents you from adding unnecessary fluff to it that may cause readers to lose interest. and Be prepared to hear the word "no" a lot. However, do not lose sight of the yes that is waiting for you down the road. I had 25 rejection letters before my first acceptance letter arrived. Write, and write everyday.
@rosdimy (3926)
• Malaysia
25 Jan 09
Start by scribbling down any ideas that come into your mind. I found the easiest way to start was by writing something based on what I know, and on what I had experienced in life. So my initial scribbles were usually on what happened to me and to those I know. A new story can then be written based on one incident and expanded, or a combination of events faced by different individuals. Stories written like this normally have a certain aura which attracts readers, because they are based on true events. Created stories usually have a dry taste. You can use a mind map to see how your story should progress. Never forget about the Who, What, Why, Where, When, and How. all the best, rosdimy
• Canada
26 Jan 09
I'd suggest that you first improve your craft. It's important to know how to write well and that takes time. Start reading a lot (of the good stuff) and practicing every day. By the way, I'm not a big fan of the write what you know advice, because most people don't lead fascinating lives. But I suggest that you do research if you want to write about a particular topic that you don't know much about.